Valentine’s Day Hotspots in NYC

Some may bill it as a “Hallmark Holiday,” but Valentine’s Day is really what you and your love make of it. With so many different activities to choose from during Valentine’s Day in New York City, there’s sure to be something that fits your unique tastes – even if you can’t celebrate on the 14th!

Look into the stars this Valentine’s Day in New York. The American Museum of Natural History’s Rose Center for Earth and Space is hosting a special event with an open cocktail and champagne bar, passed hors d’oeuvres, and chocolates. While you gaze into the stars and seek out specific heavenly bodies, enjoy the musical stylings of a jazz quartet.

There’s no hard and fast rule that says you have to celebrate Valentine’s Day on February 14th. If something prevents you and your love from making it out on that exact date, the Disney Valentine’s Ball might be your perfect alternative.

If you fancy yourself a Disney princess, you’ll enjoy hearing the greatest love tales of all time, and receiving “true love’s kiss” from your sweetie at Disney’s Valentine’s Ball. Rock cover band The Little Mermen will be serenading couples to ensure their own fairy tale night. And don’t let the fact that Disney is in the name throw you off – this all night sing-along featuring Disney hits is sure to be a rager!

Here’s another fun date idea instead of or in addition to February 14th activities. R&B/soul stars The Stylistics, The Dramatics, The Delfonics, The Manhattans, and Blue Magic will be setting the mood for this romantic Valentine’s Day in New York date idea.

Love is in the air at Duffy Square. Take your love by the hand and play witness to (or act as a participant in!) actual wedding ceremonies, surprise proposals, and vow renewals. If the relationship is new, have your own fun by going to the Heart of Hearts kaleidoscopic kissing booths.

For the super-fit couple, a Valentine’s Day in New York date might consist of a mutual adrenaline rush. Specifically, rock climbing at Try The Cliffs at LIC. Buy a day pass ($28), or if you’re a novice, an introductory class ($49). The facility is well-equipped, and the friendly staff will make sure you have an amazing time.

Improve your senses by getting rid of one of them. Guests at chef Abigail Hitchcock’s Camaje will experience a four-course meal while blindfolded. This unusual experience is choreographed by performance artists and is said to be an experiment to test and awaken senses. It will surely be a Valentine’s Day in New York you won’t soon forget!

If you and your partner are the type who’d prefer a low-key, no-fuss Valentine’s Day in New York, Barracuda Lounge might be the perfect place for you. This no-attitude gay lounge is a cozy place to enjoy a drag show – especially during happy hour.

The High LineWashington St at Gansevoort St, New YorkFreeEveryday, 7am–11pm

The High Line is a long park in New York that first opened in 2009. Abandoned elevated train tracks were transformed into exquisite parks and gardens. With stunning views of the Hudson River, and downtown New York’s skyline, The High Line provides a romantic atmosphere on any day of the year.

You’ll be able to see Hudson River Park from The High Line – why not make your way over on Valentine’s Day? This beautiful waterfront park stretches from Battery Park to 59th Street. If you decide to get active, there’s skating, kayaking many paths for walking, and plenty of room for biking.

Are you a fan of classical music? Check out Love in the Parlors: A Valentine in Concert. Presented by The Bond Street Euterpean Singing Society, performers include Anthony Bellov, Amy Gluck, Jane Elizabeth, and many others signing 19th century hits.